Headwaters Responders.
First neighbours.
We don't call ourselves first responders. But when emergencies happen in the Headwaters Lakes area, we're often the first neighbours to arrive. Our volunteers are trained, equipped, and organized to support our remote community until professional services can reach us.
Becoming a recognized volunteer fire brigade.
We are actively working toward formal recognition as a volunteer fire brigade under BC's fire services framework. Recognition would open the door to provincial funding programs, equipment grants, and structured training support that our community currently funds entirely through membership dues.
A recognized brigade would allow us to apply for fire trucks, motorized pumps, breathing apparatus, protective gear, and wildfire suppression equipment — tools that are simply out of reach for a small, self-funded society.
In the meantime, we continue to build our capacity through member-funded equipment purchases, hands-on training, and coordinated emergency response. Every piece of gear we acquire and every training session we run brings us closer to the standards required for formal recognition.
Trained volunteers and shared equipment for initial attack on small fires before provincial resources arrive.
Communication link between cabin owners, BC Wildfire, Search and Rescue, and the Conservation Officer Service.
First-neighbour support for medical incidents until BC Ambulance or Search and Rescue can reach our remote area.
Chainsaw teams and equipment for road clearance, structure assessments, and access emergencies.
What responders do.
Responders are cabin owners who volunteer their time to keep the community safe. There is no minimum commitment — showing up for training, helping maintain equipment, and being willing to respond when needed is all it takes.
Be willing to help
Responders commit to showing up for their neighbours when it matters. No prior experience is required — just a willingness to learn and act when the community needs it.
Know the safety equipment
Familiarize yourself with the shared equipment — where it is, how to operate it, and when to use it. Pumps, hoses, chainsaws, and first aid supplies only help if people know how to use them.
Volunteer for maintenance
Help inspect and maintain shared emergency equipment to keep it in ready condition year-round. Regular upkeep between incidents is what makes rapid response possible.
Attend training sessions
Participate in fire suppression drills, safety preparedness sessions, and hands-on equipment training. Annual exercises keep skills sharp and build coordination between volunteers.
911 first — always
If there is any risk to life, call 911 immediately. Our role is community support and coordination, not to replace professional emergency services.
SMS emergency coordination
Active responders use our SMS line (778-760-3133) to receive and coordinate emergency calls. Text ON to go on duty and OFF when unavailable. All responses are logged automatically.
Current equipment.
Every chainsaw, pump, and first aid kit we maintain represents hours of member effort and shared commitment to community resilience.
12' hard suction line, 2" cam lock
donated line has threaded fittings, need forestry adapters
1-1/2" Forestry
Stored at Headwaters Family Camp
Stored at Headwaters Family Camp
Equipment we need.
We are actively seeking donations of equipment or funds toward specific items. If you have any of these items in good working condition, or would like to contribute toward a purchase, please reach out to the board.
for priming the pump
male/female cam locks. To be used as extension for the water pump
(knives, pliers, screwdrivers, wrenches, etc)
we should have 500-1000 ft of line
Become a responder.
If you're a cabin owner who wants to be part of the first line of community support, we want to hear from you. No prior experience required — just commitment to your neighbours.
Email the boardHave gear to give?
Donations of equipment in good working condition — pumps, chainsaws, protective gear, first aid supplies, radios — go directly toward community readiness. Cash donations toward specific equipment purchases are also gratefully accepted.
Get in touch